Efficacy of N₂O/O₂ inhalation sedation with or without midazolam on childrens’ behavior during dental treatment

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of nitrous oxide⁄oxygen (N2O⁄O2) inhalation sedation with N2O⁄O2 + midazolam on childrens’ behavior during dental treatment.
Methods: The study group comprised 28 boys and 32 girls (ASA 1), whose mean ages were 65.48±11.29 months. The mean dmft of study population was 10,36±3.19. Children with definitely negative behaviour ratings on the Frankl Behaviour Scale (Score 1 or 2) were included. All children needed at least two sedation appoinments. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 50%-50% N2O⁄O2 inhalation sedation with or without midazolam administered intranasally at 0,2 mg/kg. The alternative procedure was administered at the following appointment. The duration of treatment, as well as number of treated teeth were recorded for all sessions. The behavioral outcome was evaluated with the Houpt Modified Scale.
Results: The study groups did not differ significantly with respect to childrens’ behavior during dental treatment (p>0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between study groups for duration of procedures (p>0.05). However, the number of treated teeth increased in midozalam group significantly (p<0.05).
Conclusions: Both methods were found to be effective in reducing dental anxiety in children